Permeability Test
International standards for determining the resistance of paper and board to the penetration of grease provide a unified framework for global trade. The iso 16532 series covers several different methods for assessing how well a substrate holds back fats and oils under various conditions. It is divided into parts that address different levels of grease resistance from simple staining to long-term penetration.
Measurement Procedure
Testing according to the first part involves the use of palm kernel oil and a weighted buret to observe the time taken for spots to appear. This specific application of iso 16532 is particularly relevant for papers used in the packaging of butter, margarine and other high-fat food items. Another part of the standard uses a sand-pack method to simulate the pressure and contact found in actual storage scenarios.
Precise control of temperature and humidity during the test is mandatory for reproducible results.
Quality Benchmark
Procurement specifications for food-grade paper often cite these methods to ensure that shipments from different mills meet the same performance criteria. By using iso 16532, buyers can compare the barrier properties of domestic and imported stocks with confidence. The standard provides a more objective and rigorous measurement than older or more subjective tests used in the past.
Reliable data from these tests allow packaging engineers to optimize coating weights and material choices for specific shelf-life requirements.